Optimizing the selenium partial pressure to modulate the phase evolution of kesterite for solar cells has yielded a certified efficiency of 13.8%

November 6, 2023

Kesterite, known as Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe), represents a highly efficient thin-film photovoltaic material. With significant strides in research, scientists have achieved an impressive 13.8% efficiency when utilizing this compound. Kesterite demonstrates great promise for both solar cell production and further research endeavors aimed at enhancing energy conversion efficiency. It also serves as a platform for investigating and implementing selenization methods to optimize kesterite performance.

This study sheds light on the intricacies of kesterite absorber selenization and introduces an innovative strategy for kinetic regulation, simplifying the path towards achieving efficient kesterite solar cells.

Several methods are available for synthesizing CZT(S,Se) kesterites. For example, one approach involves grinding Cu, Zn, Sn, S (or Se) into nanocrystals, maintaining specific ratios, and evaporating them onto glass substrates. CZTSxSey compounds are obtained using crystalline hydrates such as Na6Sn2Se713H2O and Na6Sn2Se716H2O, synthesized with the assistance of Na2Se, B2H6, and SnSe2. Furthermore, CZTSSe can be synthesized using copper selenide, zinc, and tin sulfide in precise molar ratios.

Source: Nature Energy volume 8, pages526–535 (2023)

Jiazheng Zhou, Xiao Xu, Huijue Wu, Jinlin Wang, Licheng Lou, Kang Yin, Yuancai Gong, Jiangjian Shi, Yanhong Luo, Dongmei Li, Hao Xin & Qingbo Meng